In pictures: New look Lincoln Castle’s 1st birthday

A year ago today, thousands flocked to Lincoln Castle to rediscover its historic gems. Revived, polished and revealed with a £22 million refurbishment, the attraction has seen triple the number of visitors through its doors since the gates were reopened.

In celebration of the new-look castle’s first anniversary, visitors to the castle grounds on Friday, April 1 were invited to a special party in the company of royalty.

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

‘King John’ graced the castle with his royal presence, generously dishing out slices of birthday cake. He, alongside a host of other Medieval characters, then had his photograph taken with guests of all ages.

Councillor Nick Worth, Executive Member for Culture and Heritage. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Councillor Nick Worth, Executive Member for Culture and Heritage, said: “It’s been a phenomenal first year for the castle, with a stunning 250,000 people through the gates.

“We want everyone to share in that success, so we’ll be putting on a free party with all invited.

“Our second year looks set to be just as exciting as the first, so if you’re one of the few people who haven’t found out what all the fuss is about, pay us a visit soon.”

Visitors to Lincoln Castle can enjoy more than 1,000 years of hidden history including a specially commissioned vault for the Magna Carta and Charter of the Forest, the only place in the world where they can be viewed together.

The Victorian Prison was also refurbished with archaeology uncovered during the works displayed throughout. People can also enjoy a castle shop and cafe.

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